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Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice Salad

Savory Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice Salad with Zesty Tahini

This Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice Salad is a delightful blend of marinated chicken, crispy rice, and fresh veggies, perfect for healthy meal prep on busy weekdays.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb chicken thighs or breasts Thighs provide juiciness, while breasts are leaner.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Helps marinate the chicken and crisp the rice.
  • 2 tsp cumin Adjust to your taste.
  • 1 tsp paprika Feel free to increase for more warmth.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Swap for fresh garlic (1 clove) if preferred.
  • ½ tsp turmeric Optional for color and subtle flavor.
  • salt and pepper Essential for seasoning; use to taste.
For the Crispy Rice
  • 2 cups cooked rice Cooled, short-grain rice works best.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cucumber Diced for freshness and crunch.
  • 2 tomatoes Chopped; consider cherry tomatoes.
  • ½ red onion Sliced; green onions can be a substitute.
  • 1 handful fresh parsley or cilantro Brightens the dish.
For the Tahini Dressing
  • ¼ cup tahini Base of the creamy dressing.
  • 1 lemon juice From 1 lemon; balance flavors.
  • 1 garlic Minced clove; optional.
  • water Add as needed to thin dressing.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • large skillet
  • grill or skillet
  • Whisk
  • Cutting board

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Add chicken, ensuring well-coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes on each side. Let it rest before slicing.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Add cooled rice, spreading evenly. Cook, stirring frequently, for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  4. Chop cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion in a mixing bowl. Add parsley or cilantro and toss together.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. Gradually add water until desired consistency is reached. Chill for 15 minutes.
  6. On a serving platter, layer crispy rice, sliced chicken, and vegetable mixture. Drizzle tahini dressing over salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture. Store salad components separately for meal prep.

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